Book Production Associate, Random House Children's Books

Job Description

Production Associate, Random House Children's Books

What was your favorite book when you were a kid? Did you love The Phantom Tollbooth? Or the Magic Tree House series? Do you remember reading a children's book that changed your life? If you want to be part of a team dedicated to the creation of new books for middle-grade and young adult readers, then this role is for you.

Random House Children's Books, a division of Penguin Random House, seeks a hands-on and detail-oriented Production Associate who will be an essential member of Random House Children's 1-color production team, reporting to the Senior Production Manager, The Associate will manage their own list of softcover and casebound titles from inception to bound book and support the team as needed.

This experienced Production Associate will be part of a fast-paced and collaborative group. You'll work closely with many colleagues in other departments within the division, especially Editorial, Managing Editorial, and Art/Design. The role is ideal for someone who is highly organized, can handle multiple tasks at one time in a deadline-driven environment, and is interested in further developing one's skills in the craft of bookmaking from the phases of paperback and hardcover book production.

The position of production associate at Random House Children's Books is a hybrid position with in-office responsibilities, which include but are not limited to color-correcting proofs, reviewing samples, using Epson proofers, and in-office meetings. We will consider candidates who can work from a commutable distance to our offices at 1745 Broadway, which includes the tri-state area (NJ, CT, & PA).

For consideration, please apply using our ATS system and include your cover letter and resume.

The Role:
• Reports to the Senior Manager, Production of hardcover and paperback novels
• Manages a full list of titles, both softcover and casebound, as well as boxed sets
• Preflight files to ensure they meet the desired format and printer specifications
• Works closely with internal departments (managing editorial, editorial, and design) and outside vendors
• Assists in identifying appropriate and most cost-effective specs for non-standard projects
• Maintains and continually monitors production schedules using FileMaker Pro
• Review proofs and finished samples for color and overall quality
• Inputs network specifications and issues purchase orders using SAP
• Compares pricing across vendors and provides estimates for P&L analysis
• Attends and participates in bi-weekly title status meetings
• Archives files upon final approval and project completion.

The Essentials:
• Minimum of 2 years of book production experience, including cost estimating, file pre-flighting, and purchasing, in either trade or educational book publishing
• A curious and focused mindset and dexterity in working with data management, communication, and Production/Design software tools:
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
on both Mac and PC operating systems
• Familiarity with InDesign, Acrobat
• Knowledge of Photoshop, SAP, and FileMaker Pr o a plus (training available)
• Creative individual, eager to share ideas and actively participate in group brainstorms
• Self-motivated, able to prioritize, and can work independently as well as in a team
• Ability to prioritize and multitask while keeping track of multiple ongoing projects in various stages of production, as well as daily duties
• Candidate must be proactive and exceptionally organized and feel confident thriving in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment,
• Strong communication & writing skills are essential
• Deadline-oriented when navigating multiple projects with ease and confidence
• Exceptional attention to detail, the ability to prioritize, and strong follow-up skills
• A team player with the ability to build internal & external relationships
• Takes initiative once comfortable in the role with a strong history of problem-solving creatively

The salary for this position is $53,000. All positions are currently eligible for annual profit award or bonus, subject to Company results.

Penguin Random House job postings include a good faith compensation range for each open position. The salary range listed is specific to each particular open position and takes into account various factors including the specifics of the individual role, and candidate's relevant experience and qualifications.

Full-time employees are eligible for our comprehensive benefits program. Our range of benefits include, but are not limited to, Medical/Prescription drug insurance, Dental, Vision, Health Care/Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account, Health Savings Account, Pre-Tax and Roth 401(k), Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance, Life/AD&D Insurance, Commuter Benefits, Student Loan Repayment Program, Educational Assistance & generous paid time off.

Jobcode: Reference SBJ-gkyvpq-98-80-143-34-42 in your application.